I have shaken the tin for both RAFA and RBL over the years but only the latter now after taking a considerable amount of abuse one year during a wings appeal. Not sure why, I listened respectfully to the tirade of abuse and explained what the proceeds were used for but after the threat of physical violence I decided to hang up my tin. This was not one isolated instance that year. I have never had any abuse or rudeness with the RBL Poppy appeal.
I guess the reason why I post this is because RAFA do not sell themselves very well and never have. They do a great job but perceptions in the RAF are that members are all retired and have lost sight of the present. I guess they are, in the late 90's before I hung up my tin, we had guys who had served in the 2nd WW and every conflict since - sincere, good company and welcoming. Meetings were well managed and we had a great laugh afterwards - social events were also good fun. Sadly, the lack of membership meant that the N Wilts Clubs have reduced dramatically and there is little serving RAF interest - perceptions, hearts and minds, not sure how they are going to fix that sadly.